Yeoh expressed disappointment at the decision to disqualify Azizulhasni, dubbed the “Pocket Rocketman”, for overtaking the derny (motorised pacer) before it pulled off the track during his heat.

“I am angry at the decision to disqualify Azizulhasni. Did the team appeal? Yes, but the decision to disqualify him was final.

“I only have one priority for Azizulhasni – his well-being after this incident. From day one, I never had to worry about this athlete and his hunger for excellence. He is driven, hardworking and professional,” she said in a Facebook post.

She also asked parents who were watching the race with their children to take the time to explain to them what happened and why. “In sports, the rules will bind you.”

“For the rest of us, be kind to Azizul and his team during this difficult time. Especially so for his young family,” she said, adding that his family has sacrificed much over many years of not having him around due to the hours spent on training and competitions abroad.

“Be kind with your words,” Yeoh added.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also took to Facebook to express his appreciation for Azizulhasni.

“You will always be the nation’s gem, thank you,” Anwar said in a post uploaded on his Facebook Story, accompanied by a background image of the athlete.

This is Azizulhasni’s fifth Olympics since Beijing 2008.